Relationships

For such a universal experience, it’s somewhat shocking that so many of us know so little about what actually happens as death approaches. Most of us have been raised in an era and environment where death happens in a facility or setting apart from everyday life, and frequently those in…

Though it’s not uncommon for older adults to live their later years in age-segregated communities, either by choice or by necessity, there’s also something to be said about mixing it up with younger people. In fact, the concept of an intergenerational friendship- that is, having a friend who is at…

Is there a difference between being alone and being lonely? At this point, so many older adults are alone, vulnerable to the health consequences that are more likely as a solo ager and without the supports that typically allow an older adult to remain active and engaged. But does being…

Figuring out where to live- and how to live- as the years creep up is one of the essential dilemmas you’ll face as you get older. Not everyone has a choice in the matter, and indeed homelessness is becoming an ever bigger problem among older adults. But for those who…

After a week of celebrating Halloween and The Day Of The Dead, you may be having thoughts about “the afterlife.” From our earliest recorded history, interest in and connection with an afterlife has been an ongoing part of celebrations and rituals around dying and death. Around the world, cultures acknowledge…

A recent national survey of older adults living alone, conducted by AARP, found both good and not-so-good news when it comes to seniors aging “solo.” About 10% of the US population over age 50 are “solo agers” and for women over age 75, that number jumps to 42%. It’s a…